However, a still from KNBC-4 shows an apparently undamaged bike leaning against the sound wall on the side of the freeway, suggesting that the victim may have left it there before walking onto the roadway.

There was no explanation for why the victim was riding a bike on the freeway, or why he or she may have entered the traffic lanes.

This is the ninth bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the third in Los Angeles County; it’s also the third in the City of Los Angeles.

My deepest sympathy and prayers for the victim and all his or her loved ones.

Parker Hopps locked his bike behind The Counter at the corner of Laurel Canyon and Ventura Blvds in Studio City yesterday, only to have it stolen around 3:30 pm.

The bike is a black 2009 Schwinn Madison fixed gear (see photo); it was purchased from Metropolis Bikes on Lankershim, so it may have a sticker from that shop attached to the frame.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his late 20s, with black hair, about 5’8″ and 160 to 170 pounds. He was wearing blue jeans, a white track jacket with blue stripe down the arms, black sneakers and a black hat.

If you see the bike or know the suspect, call the LAPD North Hollywood station immediately at 818/623-4016, then let me know and I’ll forward word to the owner.